Posts tagged with "Mel Quagrainie"

NFT Animal Series

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360 MAGAZINE launches Animal Series on OpenSea. These are non-tangible one-of-a-kind pieces. Each animal is an adorable creature with a cute face. They’re available in GIF format. Be sure to cop one before it’s too late!

This NFT drop was created alongside graphic artist Mel Quagrainie while under the design direction of culture curator Vaughn Lowery. 360 is a progressive thinking organization, adjusting to new world order. It will be your first opportunity to directly attain NFTs from the multimedia platform.

‘Inspired by my 12yro son’s gaming persona. From the cat’s complexion to his mischievous smirk. I’m sure version 2.0 will include corrective lenses since Lenox rarely blinks during his long online competitions of Roblox and Fortnite.’ – Vaughn Lowery

About Lucky Lenox

Nimble, intelligent, but modest, Lucky Lenox was a legacy, a descendant of humanity and hope. The capacity to meticulously mold this domesticated devil into a work of abstraction demanded patience and tenacity. After being nostalgic, we recalled the tutelage of an orange-banded cat, Lucky. That tiger baby turned into our best friend, witnessing a darker side that crawled in to play video games for hours, avoiding chores. Then a protege came along and marveled at the mirror. Improved, re-programmed on a path of endless possibilities which became an uninterrupted portal to affection.

Care to dabble with debonair? Adopt while providing support to a local shelter of your choice.

360’s inaugural project, Merging Versus, can be found HERE.

Vaughn guest speaks at NFT-VIP.

Variety Hitmakers Celebration

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Variety’s fifth annual Hitmakers celebration took place on Saturday December 4th, 2021, where an array of top individuals in the music industry were recognized for their revolutionary accomplishments in the year of 2021. The invitation-only brunch event was presented by Peacock and the streamer’s comedy series “Girls5Eva.” Amazon Music hosted a red-carpet pre-show before the celebration underwent.

360 Magazine was the guest of Wagoneer, the official partner of the Hitmakers celebration. The all-new 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was showcased onsite at the event. The brand-new Wagoneer encompasses an innovative style paired with progressive technology. The Wagoneer showcases a pioneering spirit paired with legendary capability. What Wagoneer does in the realm of automobile experiences is exactly what the honorees of this celebration do in the music industry; they both push the envelope and delve into uncharted territory, ultimately making history.

The brunch and celebration acknowledged distinguished writers, executives, producers and artists that have had a hand in the most groundbreaking music of the year. Billie Eilish, Finneas, the City Girls, Lana Del Rey, Jack Harlow, Lil Nas X, Normani, Olivia Rodrigo and Kali Uchis were all in attendance. Such awards that were recognized at the event included:

City Girls – The Future is Female Award presented by Motown Records

Lil Nas X – Innovator of the Year

Normani – Collaborator of the Year

BTS “Butter” – Record of the Year

Olivia Rodrigo – Songwriter of the Year

Jack Harlow – Hitmaker of Tomorrow

Lana Del Rey – Decade Award

Billie Eilish and Finneas – Film Song of the Year

Kali Uchis – Crossover Award

Steven Victor – Hitbreaker of the Year

Polo G – Rising Star ward presented by Amazon music

Ron Perry and Jennifer Mallory Columbia Records – Label of the Year

Mike Dean – Producer of the Year

Wendy Goldstein – A&R Award

Max Lousada – Executive of the Year

Austin Rosen – Manager of the Year

As the awardees were recognized for their successes throughout the year, several cameos were showcased. BTS curated a video accepting their award for Record of the Year for the song “Butter.” Like BTS, Steven Victor, too, sent in a video accepting his award for Hitbreaker of the Year. Other cameo videos congratulating the esteemed group of individuals were sent in from the Jonas brothers, Ed Sheeran and the cast of Girls5eva.

The impeccable design of the venue curated an unforgettable experience for all the honorees and attendees. Several photo op sceneries were created at the outside portion of the venue. The event even had a Girls5eva gif booth where guests could curate their own original gifs. All around, the venue was decorated with bouquets of flowers at each table and at the main stage. Guests were offered brunch inside of the venue that had a wide assortment of delicious treats.

Variety’s Hitmakers celebration showcased and celebrated a wide array of esteemed individuals in the music industry. These groundbreaking names in the music industry were truly honored at the event.

By: McKinley Franklin

Brinks Cat Series NFT

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360 Magazine is excited to announce the launching of the Brinks Cat NFT series, exclusively on Opensea, The collection can be found, and purchased, HERE. To stay ahead of the curve, we’re launching our second ever NFT collection with the help of artist Mel Quagrainie. We will be selling both tangible and non-tangible items, that are going to be one-of-a-kind pieces. Each cat is an adorable creature with a cute face and a different load in between. Be sure to snag yours before it’s too late!

Our first project, Merging Versus, can be found HERE. If you want more information on it, click HERE.

NFT.NYC ROUNDUP

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NFTs are unique assets that cannot be replaced by any other programs, often checked and stored with blockchain technology. They can incorporate anything from music to a website domain. The current modern craze is all around digital art. This time 360 Magazine attended one of the largest NFT conferences in North America, NFT.NYC. This was a three-day event, featuring more than five hundred speakers from the crypto, blockchain, and NFT communities.

NFT.NYC 2021

NFT.NYC takes place in New York City. This is the third year running for the conference. We are elevated to attend and participate in this technological ceremony which anticipates the future of artistic creation and shopping. This event has gathered thousands of professionals in the field of NFT and had a 3-day commitment for the showcase and seminar. NFT is now being used in a wide range of scenarios, including art, travel, food, game, etc. As a result, the speakers are from all kinds of industries, We met 3LAU, who is a DJ from Las Vegas, Jan Bodden, who is an NFT gamer, and Gary Vee who is the CEO of VaynerX.

Spotlight Speaker: Gary Vee

Gary Vee is a Belarusian-American entrepreneur. He is well known for being the co-founder of the restaurant reservation software company Resy. Now, he is one of the pioneers in promoting and supporting the NFT. He has 2.5 million followers on Twitter, many of whom have been initiated into blockchain and NFT through his NFT – Vee Friends collection. It was a great pleasure to have the opportunity to meet him and hear his opinion on NFT.

While he is one of the earliest figures who has been investing and collecting the NFTs, he says that sometimes the technology can go over his head. Instead of focusing heavily on technology, he is more interested in how NFT will help and change people’s daily life. He is optimistic about the future of NFT, however, he still has his concern. He thinks that people are paying too much attention to the value and financial benefit NFT can bring while they ignore the importance of developing NFT itself as a product.

Alma Jimenez: Women in NFTs

Alma Jimenez is a Mexican American artist based out of New York. Alma recently made her own presentation at NFT NYC. Throughout the presentation, she introduces herself and her journey through the space of NFTs. In 2008, Alma funded the Vj Deliria project which is her longest art project to date. Through the project, Alma explores video art and glitch aesthetics. Alma’s NFTs are a reflection of the traditions that represent her heritage. Through Alma’s long term Vj Deliria project, she has been able to meet with a wide range of artists that have been able to help expand her art. Alma has now begun migrating to the metaverse with a mindset of building community, and specifically bringing the Latin American community with her on these new pursuits.

The first exhibition that Alma did in the metaverse was the Latin American Graffiti exhibition that featured a graffiti artist collective from Mexico City. The opening reception of the exhibition was featured in Clubhouse so that a group of artists could meet up in the metaverse and walk the gallery as one. From this first exhibition alone, Alma gathered over twenty-three artists to participate in this new coming of age metaverse experience.

In the following weeks of this exhibition, Alma was invited by Chile’s Ministry of Culture, Art and Heritage to talk about NFTs and crypto art, and the role that they play as a creative economy. Alma knew that she wanted to share this opportunity with other remarkable artists from Chile that were also creating in the NFT space. This exhibition that featured other distinguished Chilean artists was called Chile Diverso NFT. Following this crucial exhibition, they created an Opensea Collection, Oncyber gallery and Cryptovoxels exhibition. The next exhibition Alma curated is called NFTribu, which also translates to NFTribe. The exhibition is nomadic, and the groups move from galleries between differing metaverses. This unique exhibition showcases NFT art that is inspired by Pre-Columbian cultures, indigenous and native people from Latin America. The exhibition is ongoing, and Alma is always in search of more art to add to the exhibition.

Danny Cole: A Prodigy in Creature World

Danny Cole is a 21 years old American painter and interdisciplinary artist from New York City. He attended the NFT.NYC as one of the youngest artists with his art assembles Creature World. As he said: “The Creature World is this imaginary place that I like to visit and I’d like to give other people the opportunity to visit. There’s a real beauty in entering those alternative states, like dreaming.” He has achieved 26.3k trade-in volume on the biggest NFT trade market Opensea which has a net worth value of over one hundred million dollars. As a result, his works have even been mentioned with the same breath as Keith Haring.

Event-Exclusive: Topps NFTs

An exclusive set of NFTs from Topps was given away at this years NFT.NYC apart of the events Digital Swag Bag. Two special NFTs were crafted to celebrate the one and only Godzilla.

Happy Birthday, Godzilla! (NFT NYC 2021 Topps NFT Exclusive): The first NFT celebrates the November birthday of Godzilla. Along with celebrating The King of Monsters’ birthday, this NFT also acclaims the newest Godzilla Rage Across Time NFT drop. Topps and Toho have worked together to generate this special NFT NYC Exclusive collectible honoring November 3^rd.

Godzilla Rage Across Time NFT (NFT NYC 2021 Topps NFT Exclusive): The second NFT was created to commemorate the October release of the 2021 Godzilla Rage Across Time NFT Collection by Topps on ToppsNFTs.com.

While onsite at the annual ceremony, the Curio team was on-site handing out physical cards that would grant recipients another event exclusive NFT from the upcoming Mars Attacks collection, in partnership with Topps. The Mars Attacks collection launches later this month.

Crypto Art Fair

Crypto Art Fair was our focus. All the art programming was provided by INX.com who was an Investors & Blockchain Consultant company that offered custom smart contracts, digital wallets, artist engagements & collaborations. The event was hosted in Times Square on the second day of NFT.NYC by NFT Magazine. We are with great esteem to stand in front of all the digital billboards and witness this splendid congregation. It was the first event that NFT magazine was holding. It took place through over 1.5k sq ft of billboard and have showcased various kind of NFT artwork. The event featured more than seventy artists which including Marc Tudisco, Steven Baltay, Ragdollz, Danny Cole. The event was also featuring the AR experience through the AR platform SuperWorld.

NFT: Merging Verses

The future of fashion is the merging of two verses, the virtual world (metaverse) and the physical world. 360 Magazine this time was delighted to be the media partner of the NFT Project “Merging Verses”. We have launched this NFT at Paradise Club in Times Square Edition. Standing with the idea of women in NFT, we had our after-party featuring our NFT producer Bee Davies who is the founder of Hive Global Media. Paradise Club is an imaginative, chaotic, and highly productive show venue that fits perfectly in Times Square. With its colorful dancefloor and the wonderful performance of DJ RICH GREENE, it was such a huge success, and we were looking forward to our next collaboration! Along with this merge of spaces with NFTS, we are interested to see the trajectory and ultimate impact of NFTs in long-term culture. How will NFTs ultimately influence the way that society consumes food, purchases automobiles or even how we choose to travel? NFTs have already began becoming emerged into our everyday lives and can even change the way we decorate our homes. This integration of NFTs into our society and mainstream culture is something that we are interested in and curious to learn more about.

MORE NFT EVENTS COMING: NFT.LAND

If you have missed the NFT.NYC, there will be another event taking place early next year from March 22-25th. NFT.LAND will be held in the Caesar Forum in Las Vegas. It is an epic conference organized by Tokensmart. More artists, collectors, developers, entrepreneurs, and other like-minded individuals for us to expect next year at NFT.LAND

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Article by:

Vaughn Lowery, McKinley Franklin, Conan Zhang, Armon Hayes

Daniel Craig Departs Bond Franchise

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By: Skyler Johnson

Daniel Craig, the most recent Bond, is by far one of the most successful and most beloved. Compared to the other iterations of the iconic character, his films have ranked highly amongst others in the franchise. Starting with his performance in Casino Royale, a soft reboot of the Bond films, in 2006, he retained his position as the 21^st century Bond through the most recent film No Time to Die in 2021.

His departure was a major upset to fans, who were large supporters of the actor since Casino Royale (2006), which was heavily praised partially due to Craig’s performance. While his casting was initially controversial and even ridiculed, Craig was known for his different take on Bond, adding depth and emotionality to the character. This was cemented in the original movie of his time in the role, which included the now iconic storyline of Vesper Lynd, who was continually referenced throughout the series.

From then, Daniel Craig’s Bond went through several changes, including Skyfall, which was a massive success, skyrocketing the career of director Sam Mendes and bringing Craig back into the spotlight. Skyfall is considered by many to be one of the best Bond pictures of all time and is widely beloved by fans. In all, Craig acted in 5 Bond films across 15 years, cementing James Bond as a 21^st century figure.

However, Craig wanted a change. He did not want to permanently be Bond, and the character was starting to become his entire identity. A plight common for other actors who have taken on the role such as Pierce Brosnan and Roger Moore, Craig sought to expand his identity. While hosting SNL in 2020, portrayed the character several times, including in the opening monologue though he does have a talent to portray comedic roles, as shown with 2019’s Knives Out.

Critically acclaimed Knives Out became a breakthrough role for Craig. Already a fixture in the public eye, Knives Out allowed Craig to show a completely different side to himself as an actor as the comedic Southern detective Benoit Blanc. The film received an Oscar nomination, three Golden Globes nominations, with adulation for Craig’s campy portrayal of a private eye.

With his creative talents turned in other directions, No Time to Die became the last Bond feature he worked on. Thankfully, it was a great way to finish. Directed by Cary Joji Fukanaga (True Detective season 1), this movie was highly enjoyed by fans for the excellent fight sequences, writing, and of course performances. Craig, as always, was incredible, both heart-wrenching and hilarious, and able to keep the audience’s attention throughout the entire 2 hours and 44-minute screen time.

The ending (no spoilers) served both as a deserving resolution for the character and a display of the talents of Daniel Craig. It was beautiful, emotional, and justified for one of the most revered Bonds. It served as an excellent ending to the modern era of Bond films. Only time will tell where Bond will go next.

Where Craig will go next, is a little more solidified than the iconic spy’s future. After 2019’s Knives Out, it’s clear the actor still has a lot to give to the world, possibly with more comedic roles like with Benoit Blanc. With Netflix paying $450 million for two sequels in the franchise, Craig may be at the center of a new film dynasty. Filming for Knives Out 2 wrapped in fall 2021 and much like the original film features a star-studded cast with the likes of Dave Bautista, Janelle Monáe, Ethan Hawke, Edward Norton, Kate Hudson, and more.

While Craig’s tenure as Bond is over, his performances cemented him in the history of the famed franchise, ensuring his legacy as a beloved version of the spy. Who knows what his next performances will offer? One thing is certain: his fans and the world will be watching.

HALLE BERRY – THE PEOPLE’S ICON

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Academy Award-Winning Actress, Director, and Producer Halle Berry to Receive The People’s Icon Award at The 2021 People’s Choice Awards

Cardi B to Present Berry with the Award at the Ceremony Live on NBC and E! on Tuesday, December 7 at 9PM ET/PT

Today, NBC and E! announced that Academy Award-winning actress, director, and producer Halle Berry will receive “The People’s Icon” award at the 2021 “People’s Choice Awards.” Grammy Award-winning artist Cardi B will present the award to Berry at the ceremony. The PCA Award-winner and seven-time nominee will be honored for her contributions in TV and film, including her directorial debut in the highly anticipated film “Bruised,” which will be in select theatres on November 17 and arrives on Netflix on November 24. Cardi B and Berry teamed up to executive produce the film’s soundtrack, which features six original songs by award-winning and multi-platinum female artists, including a song by Cardi B. The 2021 “People’s Choice Awards” will air simultaneously on both NBC and E! on Tuesday, December 7 at 9pm ET/PT from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, CA.

“Throughout her career, Halle Berry has broken down barriers, directed and starred in diverse roles that have paved the way for others in the industry,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President, Entertainment Live Events, Specials & E! News, NBCUniversal Entertainment Television and Streaming. “In addition to her filmography accolades and trendsetting ethos, Berry is known for her philanthropic work with women, children and underserved communities. She is an icon of our time and for all these reasons and more, we are honored to present her with ‘The People’s Icon’ award.”

As an actor, producer, director, activist, philanthropist, and fashion icon, Berry has made history on multiple accounts. Highlights include her performance in “Monster’s Ball,” which earned her the Academy Award for “Best Actress,” making her the first Black woman to receive that honor, as well as being nominated for a Golden Globe for “Best Actress” for her role in “Frankie and Alice.” Berry also earned an Emmy, Golden Globe, SAG and NAACP Image Award for her extraordinary performance in HBO’s telefilm, “Introducing Dorothy Dandridge,” which she also produced.

Most recently, Berry filmed Netflix’s “The Mothership,” which she stars in and executive produced, and will be seen in Roland Emmerich-helmed sci-fi epic “Moonfall” for Lionsgate, which is due in theaters February 2022. In 2020, Berry made her highly anticipated directorial debut in new film “Bruised,” in which she also stars.

Outside of her filmography success, Berry is an active supporter of the Jenesse Center in Los Angeles, which supports victims of domestic violence and aims to change the pattern of abuse in the lives of women and children. Further, Berry joined forces with Novo Nordisk and the Entertainment Industry Foundation to launch the Diabetes Aware Campaign and has supported a vast number of charities and organizations such as Afghanistan Relief Organization, Black Lives Matter, Clothes Off Our Back, Love Our Children USA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Stand Up to Cancer, Revlon Run/Walk, and United Nations World Food Programme.

Berry also founded rē•spin, a platform created to provide broader access to health and wellness content and products through inclusivity and conversation. Rooted in discovery and learning, the heart of rē•spin is its global community connected around the core belief of a holistic mind, body, and soul approach to wellness. 

The 2021 “People’s Choice Awards” will air simultaneously on both NBC and E! for the first time on Tuesday, December 7 at 9:00pm ET/PT from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, CA. “Live from E!: The 2021 People’s Choice Awards” will kick off the night with a red carpet special at 7:00pm ET/PT on E!. The “People’s Choice Awards” and “Live from E!: The 2021 People’s Choice Awards” are both produced by Den of Thieves with Executive Producers Jesse Ignjatovic, Evan Prager and Barb Bialkowski.

See the full list of all 40 categories and nominees online.

STEVE AOKI × THEOS

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STEVE AOKI Joins Forces with THEOS To Create New TV Show THE GATHERING Celebrating the World’s Greatest Festivals

Steve Aoki uncovers the most significant cultural celebrations in THE GATHERING. The project is a personal journey which takes Aoki from offstage and into the crowd in a way we’ve never seen before.

Executive Producer David Lingwood brings us to significant cultural festivals worldwide through the eyes of one of today’s most renowned global DJs.

A man of the people, Steve Aoki, tends to meet the locals and discovers their stories whenever he travels around the globe. It’s a desire he has to dive deeper into the social fabric of our times. This passion for telling personal stories was most famously captured when he interviewed cab drivers of Middle Eastern descent right after 9/11. With THE GATHERING, travel further to find engaging interactions and encounters with communities and why they come together to celebrate the human condition the way they do. Through Aoki’s unique storytelling, watch as he goes to England for “The Appleby Horsefair” to learn about England’s deep gypsy roots. Or “The Boryeong Mud Festival” in Korea to learn about another side of their culture. Steve fearlessly shares his contagious passion for culture and adventure and carries you to places and events that you’ve never heard of. A master at his craft, his goal is to find commonality through expression and community while highlighting music, authentic food, culture, people, and travel. Viewers will see some genuinely surprising answers.

DAVE LINGWOOD

David has 10+ years of experience producing award-winning television for numerous networks, including MTV, FOX, Freeform, and HGTV, to name a few. With an instinctual knack for sniffing out contemporary talent and formats, he has an unparalleled eye for recognizing trending IP. As one of the co-founders of THEOS, David has developed and sold dozens of pilots and series to networks and platforms throughout his career. In addition to producing, David shares duality as talent too, which began as one of the millennial-defining MTV series The Buried Life stars. He also wrote New York Times #1 bestseller “What Do You Want To Do Before You Die.”

David Lingwood inside 360 magazine (photo provided by workhouse pr).

THEOS is a new media entertainment company of curious storytellers. We focus on creating the most innovative and stylized media for all new domestic and global platforms. Our mission is to create demographic-specific content targeting Gen-Z and Millennials. Our goal is simple: create content that destroys molds. To learn more, visit www.theos.co

Spend NYE in Miami

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As the Christmas holiday swiftly approaches, planning for the following weekend can seem worlds away. As New Year’s Eve & Day will arrive in just a blink, here is a comprehensive list of some of Miami’s best holiday options to celebrate the arrival of 2022 flavorfully, safely, and fabulously! From New Year’s Eve & Day dinners, brunches, and parties, some of our favorite venues are opening their outdoor and indoor venues for you, your loved ones, and audiences.

THURSDAY, December 30th

Rosé Thursdays at SLS South Beach Hyde Beach – David California: Start celebrating the New Year early! Come to SLS Hyde Beach to rosé all day with sounds by David California.

FRIDAY, December 31st

Retreat Fridays at SLS South Beach Hyde Beach – Danny Stern: Keep the celebration going and head over to SLS South beach with sounds by Danny Stern.

New Year’s Eve Dinner at Diplomat Prime: 3..2…1! Celebrate the New Year with delicious cuisine and drinks at The Diplomat at Diplomat Prime.

THE FOREST OF HIKARI- Chotto Matte: Ring in the new year with an eye-catching art installation paired with the high vibes of DJ Dave Sol.

Quite a Night at SLS South Beach Hyde Beach – Luciano: Dance the year away at Hyde Beach with sounds by Luciano!

Diamonds are Forever at Altitude Pool & Lounge – DJ Cardi: Brickell Scene presents Diamonds Are Forever | A New Year’s Eve function happening Friday, December 31st on the Open-Air Altitude Pool Deck located at SLS Brickell. Come for a memorable NYE event in the heart of Brickell, alongside Miami local celebrity DJ CARDI. General admission and premium open bar tickets are available for purchase along with table package options.

NYE at The Bazaar at SLS South Beach: No better place to welcome 2022 than at the Bazaar at SLS South Beach! Come to dance and drink the night away.

NYE at Katsuya at SLS South Beach: Come to Katsuya at SLS South Beach this New Year’s Eve for a fun-filled night by the water.

NYE Dinner at Fi’lia: Say goodbye to 2021 with a 5-course meal at Filia at SLS Brickell!

New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Salvaje: Come to Salvaje this New Year’s Eve to bring in the new year the wild way!

New Year Experience at Wayku: Come to at Wayku this New Year’s Eve to bring in the new year the luxurious way!

NYE 2022 at W South Beach: Come to experience a New Year’s Eve like no other at the W South beach with the Ultimate Opera Show.

SATURDAY, January 1st

Retreat Fridays at SLS South Beach Hyde Beach – David California and Damaged Goods: Enjoy some rays and sip drinks by the pool at SLS Hyde Beach with sounds by David California and Damaged Goods.

New Year’s Day Recovery Brunch at Fi’lia: Fi’lia will be hosting the perfect solution to help terrible hangovers with a full burger bar menu where you can build your recovery burger that comes with fries. For those who want to continue the party, Fi’lia is offering Bottomless Beverage packages. To keep the vibes going there will be a live DJ.

Elderbrook at Hyde Beach: Come to Hyde Beach in SLS South beach to jam the night away with sounds by Elderbrook.

SUNDAY, January 2nd

SLS Sundays at SLS South Beach Hyde Beach – HeartAttack and Chizzle: Head over this Sunday to SLS South Beach to soak up the sun and sip your way through the day with sounds by HeartAttack and Chizzle

NEW GEN LEXUS NX

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By: Conan Zhang, Armon Hayes × Vaughn Lowery

Overview

Lexus NX is one of the most popular luxury compact SUVs in the United States.

The 2022 Lexus NX model has brought us two unprecedented features: 1) the all-new Plug-In Hybrid Electric (450h+) and 2) the all-new Lexus multimedia interface.

As of late, 360 MAGAZINE was invited to Phoenix to attend the release of the all-new Lexus NX. Its appeal will foster youth, technology, and multiculturalism.

Upon arrival, the team checked into the Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort (also part of Hilton). The grounds boast lush scenery and majestic mountains as a backdrop. For nearly a century, the lodge has played a prominent role in its habitat. Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural style offers a generous splash of Hollywood glamor.

With history worth of noting, the Biltmore was opened by brothers Warren McArthur, Jr. and Charles McArthur with John McEntee Bowman on February 23, 1929. The land spans across thirty-nine acres with 700 guest rooms. Amenities include eight outdoor pools, a 92-foot slide with a swim up bar, seven tennis courts, two golf courses and seven restaurants. There is also a fitness center, a children’s camp, a play area, as well as a full-service spa (fee not included).

Services at Tierra Luna Spa were remarkable, creating a place of sensory adventure. Within its walls, arid curative properties have been exploited in a variety of memorable experiences. Spa treatments focused on desert plants, cosmic connectivity, and dynamic recovery.

Performance

When stepping foot into the driver’s seat of the newly designed vehicle, enthusiasts can instantly notice a lower sense of gravity, thus enhancing overall handling and making it appear more aggressive. Moreover, the 2022 NX 350 model has been upgraded to a 2.4L turbo. Thanks to the integrated 8-speed transmission, the car was able to enjoy a smoother riding experience.

This trim level has an input of 275 hp with 317 pound-feet of torque, pushing 0-60mph in a time of 6.6 seconds. It’s over a half-second faster than the last model. These are impressive performances for a compact SUV in its market segment. Not to mention, it gets a combined estimate of 25 mpg.

In addition, the first-ever NX 250 features a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with start/stop function and an eight-speed transmission. The NX 250 model includes FWD and AWD options and a combined MPG estimated by the EPA of 28. The SUV is also capable of producing 203 horsepower and 184lb-ft of torque. Since it is a lower-level version than NX 350, the 0-60 mph comes to 8.2 seconds for the FWD version and 8.6 seconds for AWD.

Design

The most noticeable difference of its makeover is the signature spindle grille. While maintaining the overall skeleton of the incumbent, the mouth has become pouty and polished. Furthermore, the newly introduced L-E-X-U-S rear badging rests under the continuous tail-lamp. Say goodbye to the Toyota-like emblem on its boot. The lateral profile, at first glance, closely resembles the current model, but this is not the case. The length, width and height of the body are respectively 4660/1865/1640mm and the wheelbase is 2690 mm. In comparison with the current model, the length and width have increased by 20mm, and the wheelbase has increased by 30mm.
Taking a peek inside, the redesign of the cabin will completely hypnotize you. The new NX uses the Tazuna cockpit concept to communicate more directly and efficiently between the driver and the vehicle. The standard 9.8-inch touch panel can be upgraded to 14 inches. The infotainment unit is considerably taller than the center console, and the edges and corners have an elegant diamond shape. What makes this vehicle more intuitive than its predecessors are the steering commands that are imitated on the head-up display of the windshield. Overall, this vehicle screams ergonomically for drivers and larger passengers with enough space for four to sit comfortably. In addition, Lexus offers a panoramic moonroof that allows extra light to spread through its corridors, making stargazing more accessible than ever. At night, up to 64 selected colors of ambient light can be seen in footwells, center console and door panels.

Technology

The revamped NX marks the introduction of a brand-new Lexus multimedia platform that outperforms its current system, meeting customers’ priority for fast, intuitive on-board connectivity. Operation is as simple as using a tablet, allowing drivers to stay connected to the Lexus interface on an ongoing basis. There is wireless integration of Apple Car Play and Android Auto, Voice Assistant, cloud-enabled navigation with Google Points of Interest (POI), on aerial updates and Digital Key available. Additionally, the vehicle provides integrated streaming from Apple Music and Amazon Music. And their premium audio package features a 17-speaker system equipped by Mark Levinson. This 1800-watt high-fidelity pack effortlessly improves compressed audio, spelling out all your favorite lyrics and instruments.

Highlight: First Lexus Plug-In NX 450h+

Historically, Lexus hybrid models have captured more than 23% of their sales. The bold design and signature make the Lexus NX one of the most popular models among Gen Z and Gen Y affluent drivers. According to Koji Sato, Lexus International President and former chief engineer, electrification is already one of the most important goals for Lexus to conquer. With that, the first plug-in Lexus NX 450h+ has now been released.

The NX 450h+ has an EPA estimated range of 36 miles on electricity alone; the lithium-ion battery made this possible. This electrical system equates to a 2.0-liter motor. When combined with the newly developed hybrid, a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine offers an estimated duration of 6.0 seconds from 0 to 60.

Safety

Safety comes first every time, and Lexus knows it. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 makes driving an easy task. Other new features like Curve Speed Management and Intersection Support provide a multi-level protection base. Optional Digital Key and Advanced Park on NX 350h and NX 450h+ models make vehicle access and parking a breeze. After all, a digital key is convenient for customers who use their vehicles in car sharing apps such as Turo.

Price

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for each all-new NX are:

– $37,950 for NX 250 FWD

– $39,550 for NX 250 AWD

– $41,550 for NX 350

– $41,050 for NX 350h

– $55,560 for NX 450h+

– All prices listed are exclusive of $1,075 delivery, processing, and handling fee.

Conclusion

The 2022 Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV that offers an abundance of powertrains, a competitive edge against rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3

With the ability to tow kayaks and jet skis, this all-rounder would be great for a summer getaway to the lake. Additionally, mainly due to its petite chassis, it’s a shoo-in for parking in overcrowded urban areas and city centers.

In short, driving comfort and quiet cabins have always been an attribute of the NX; however, now with its sensual silhouette, and gorgeous lines, it’s best described as a dime piece.

Honorable Mention

The Baby Beast: Lexus IS 500 F Sport

Finally, Lexus introduced the IS 500 F Sport model to consumers in the American marketplace. Although the IS is not a brand-new product, it has been readjusted by engineers with a large facelift and power plant. The new IS model is always perfectly balanced, and the Lexus IS 500 is by far the best Lexus IS model proposed to date.

Lexus engineers have always focused on creating high-performing products for the North American market. As a result, this Lexus IS 500 F Sport is the first in its history. It’s in position to rival the AMG C43, Audi S4 and BMW 340i models.

F Sport IS 500 is the highest level of the IS series and comes well-equipped with a throaty quad exhaust, stiffer steering/suspension as well as 472 hp with 395 lb-ft of torque. The 5.0L engine delivers 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

Plus, the all-new Lexus IS 500 F Sport has 19-inch wheels and scuff plates.

Mariah Carey Makes History

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Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” continues to make pop music history this year as the artist’s perennial yuletide standard (cowritten and coproduced by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff in 1994) keeps breaking new records while lighting up the 2021 holiday season.

This December, “All I Want for Christmas is You” became the first and only holiday single to take home the RIAA’s coveted Diamond Award (in recognition of ten million sales and streaming units in the United States).

Listen to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas is You” here.

“The continued love for my song never ceases to amaze me and fill my heart with a multitude of emotions,” said Mariah. “It blows my mind that ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’ has endured different eras of the music industry. The RIAA DIAMOND award?! Wowww! I’m so fortunate to have the greatest fans on Earth, my Lambily, who continue to support my legacy. I love you.”

“Mariah is the Queen of Christmas,” said President of the Commercial Music Group at Sony Music Entertainment, Richard Story. “Her Sony Music family congratulates her on breaking yet another record, and continuing to make history as the first and only artist to achieve this incredible milestone.”

“Mariah Carey is one of the top Gold & Platinum awarded artists of all time, and ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ becoming the only holiday song to achieve Diamond is a remarkable milestone forever etched in music history. Congratulations and happy holidays to Mariah and her amazing Sony team,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO, RIAA.

Carey also spotlights the global fan-favorite “All I Want for Christmas is You” in the Apple TV+ smash-hit, Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special, with a show-stopping performance of the record-breaking song, along with her twins, son Moroccan and daughter Monroe. On the heels of this exciting news, Carey debuts her all-new holiday extravaganza Mariah’s Christmas: The Magic Continues, premiering globally today and available now on Apple TV+.

On Tuesday, December 7, Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) will make two Mariah Carey films, Live at the Tokyo Dome and First Vision, available for digital purchase and rental for the first time in the United States. Showcasing more than 80 minutes of music, including a stunning live version of “All I Want for Christmas is You,” Mariah Carey: Live at the Tokyo Dome captures the artist’s historic first concert in Japan, lensed during her 1996 Daydream World Tour. Mariah Carey: First Vision gives viewers an inside look at Mariah on the cusp of her meteoric rise to superstardom; this 1991 film contains early music videos, behind-the-scenes footage, an interview and songs from her very first live performance at New York’s intimate Tatou Club in 1990. Currently available in the US only, four additional Mariah Carey films–Fantasy: Mariah Carey at Madison Square Garden, Here is Mariah Carey, Mariah Carey Around the World and Mariah Carey: MTV Unplugged +3–will be released worldwide via SPE on December 7.

Billboard recently named Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” as the #1 record on their Greatest of All Time Holiday 100 Songs list. The song first cracked the Top 10 of the Hot 100 in December 2017 and, in December 2019, 25 years after its original release, became the second holiday single ever to hit #1 on the Hot 100, breaking the record for longest span from release date to #1. “All I Want for Christmas is You” hit #1 again in 2020, giving it a five week total in the top slot, a new milestone for a holiday recording.

Recorded in August 1994 at The Hit Factory in New York, “All I Want for Christmas is You” was originally released in October 1994 as the first single from Mariah’s Merry Christmas album, a showcase for Mariah’s interpretations of familiar holiday songs alongside the new material she’d composed with co-writer Walter Walter Afanasieff. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” went on to become one of the best-selling singles (of any genre) of all time and the best-selling holiday ringtone in the United States for several years running.

When “All I Want for Christmas is You” hit #1 on the Hot 100 in 2019, it was Mariah’s 19th claim on the top spot, a record for a solo recording artist; when her holiday single hit #1 the following year, Mariah became the first artist to have a Hot 100 # 1 in four separate decades (the 1990s, the 2000s, the 2010s and the 2020s).

Having charted every holiday season since its original release, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You”–which The New Yorker called “one of the few worthy modern additions to the holiday canon”–has become an essential seasonal standard that continues to bring the spirit of Christmas to the hearts of music lovers the world over.

“All I Want for Christmas is You” is Carey’s biggest international success, topping the charts in twenty-six countries including Australia, Canada, France, and Germany. In 2020, the holiday classic topped the charts in the United Kingdom for the first time, spending a record 69 weeks in the UK Top 40 before reaching #1. “All I Want for Christmas is You” is the all-time best-selling Christmas single by a female artist and one of the top-selling physical singles in music history. It’s the first holiday ringtone to be certified double platinum by the RIAA.

As of December 20, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” makes an unprecedented return to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart, rising from No. 2. The carol logs its sixth total week atop the Hot 100 and becomes the first song in the chart’s history to have led in three distinct runs on the ranking (2019, 2020, 2021). Additionally, the record tops both the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. charts. The two global charts rank songs based on streaming and sales activity culled from more than 200 territories, as compiled by MRC Data.

The song was first released on Carey’s album Merry Christmas in 1994 and, as streaming has grown and holiday music has become more prominent on streaming services’ seasonal playlists, it hit the Hot 100’s top 10 for the first time in December 2017, before ascending to No. 1 in both December 2019 (for three weeks) and December 2020 (two).

Carey’s gift that keeps on giving (and leading) paces six holiday classics in the Hot 100’s top 10, with Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” rising to No. 2 and Wham!’s “Last Christmas” returning to the tier at No. 9.

A deeper look at Carey’s latest Hot 100 coronation with “Christmas,” on Columbia Records/Legacy Recordings:

Airplay, streams & sales: Carey’s “Christmas” drew 37.6 million U.S. streams (up 16%) and 26.1 million radio airplay audience impressions (up 7%) and sold 7,400 downloads (up 7%) in the Dec. 10-16 tracking week, according to MRC Data.

The song spends a 13th total week at No. 1 on the Streaming Songs chart and rises 9-7 on Digital Song Sales; and 24-23 on Radio Songs. It also leads the multi-metric Holiday 100 chart for a 49th week, of the chart’s 54 total weeks since the list launched in 2011; it has topped the tally for 34 consecutive weeks, dating to the start of the 2015-16 holiday season, and dominates as the top title on the recently-revealed Greatest of All Time Holiday 100 Songs chart.

Since its release, the song has upped its U.S. totals to 4.3 billion in radio audience, 1.4 billion streams and 3.7 million in download sales.

No. 1 in a third separate chart run: Carey’s “Christmas” first topped the Hot 100 dated Dec. 21, 2019, and led again on the next two lists, dated Dec. 28, 2019, and Jan. 4, 2020.

The following holiday season, it returned to No. 1 on the chart dated Dec. 19, 2020, and, after a week at No. 2 (below Taylor Swift’s “Willow”), topped the Jan. 2, 2021, dated tally.

As “Christmas” rules the latest, Dec. 25, 2021-dated chart, it claims its sixth total week at No. 1 in its third seasonal run at the summit, becoming the first song in the Hot 100’s 63-year history to lead in three distinct chart runs. The track has re-entered the survey each November or December dating to 2012.

(As “Christmas” has made four interrupted climbs to the top of the Hot 100, on charts dated Dec. 21, 2019, Dec. 19, 2020, Jan. 2, 2021, and now Dec. 25, 2021, it ties 24kGoldn’s “Mood,” featuring iann dior, beginning in October 2020, and Drake’s “Nice for What,” in 2018, as the only songs with four separate ascents to No. 1; unlike “Christmas,” the latter two tracks logged their four distinct rises to No. 1 over unbroken chart stays.)

Longest span atop the Hot 100: Carey’s “Christmas” now boasts the longest span from a song’s first week at No. 1 on the Hot 100 to its latest: two years and four days (Dec. 21, 2019-Dec. 25, 2021).

It passes the only other song to lead the Hot 100 over multiple runs: Chubby Checker’s “The Twist,” which topped the tally dated Sept. 19, 1960, before, thanks to new popularity among adult audiences, leading the lists dated Jan. 13 and 20, 1962, ruling again after a gap of a year, three months and three weeks. (Still, that break remains the longest between Hot 100 reigns.)

Most weeks at No. 1 for a holiday hit: With its sixth week atop the Hot 100, Carey’s “Christmas” extends its record for the most time at No. 1 among holiday songs. The only other seasonal single to jingle to the apex, “The Chipmunk Song,” by David Seville & the Chipmunks, spent four weeks on top beginning in December 1958.

Carey’s record 85th week atop Hot 100: With “Christmas,” Carey claims her record-extending 85th week at No. 1 on the Hot 100, dating to the chart’s Aug. 4, 1958, inception.

Most Weeks at No. 1 on Hot 100
85, Mariah Carey
60, Rihanna
59, The Beatles
52, Drake
50, Boyz II Men
47, Usher
41, Beyoncé
37, Michael Jackson
34, Elton John
34, Bruno Mars

“Christmas” became Carey’s 19th Hot 100 No. 1, the most among soloists and one away from The Beatles’ overall record 20. It also made Carey the first artist to have ranked at No. 1 on the chart in four distinct decades, dating to her first week on top with her debut single, “Vision of Love,” in 1990.

Further, “Christmas” is Carey’s record fifth Hot 100 No. 1 to rule for six weeks or more. She one-ups Boyz II Men, Drake and Usher, each with four such leaders.

Plus, it’s not only fitting that “Christmas” leads the Hot 100 dated Dec. 25, 2021, but Carey is the only artist to top the chart on multiple rankings dated Dec. 25: her “Hero” began a four-week stay at No. 1 on the Dec. 25, 1993, Hot 100. (This week’s chart is the 10th dated Dec. 25 in the list’s history.)